It was an odd year for Patriots WR Taylor Price, the most unknown rookie in the entire 2010 class. A third-round pick who was blocked on the field by more experienced and accomplished receivers, Price spent most of the season on the bench.

The Ohio product used his practices as his games, but all he could do was watch. Finally, he did play against the Dolphins in the finale, catching three balls for 41 yards.

After the season ended, I spoke with him about his prospects for 2011. He was hoping it started immediately.

"But hey, I guess I gotta wait," Price said. "That’s just the nature of it. So, I’ll be ready next year."

It was a playoff game that saw the receivers struggle, and Price could have helped. Instead, he spent the year learning. Sure, it was slower than any other rookie. But he also faced the biggest challenge just getting on the field.

No wonder he's thinking about amping it up next season.

"I'm anxious to get better," Price said. "Take some time off, obviously, get away from football, and then get back to work on my craft, my technique, the details and that’s going to make me good and get me a chance to fight for a starting spot next year -- hopefully. I just want to get better overall as a player. As a rookie, it’s a big learning curve and I think I did a good job with that. It’s still a learning process."

Price headed home after the season ended to "see some nice weather" and hang with his family.

"Then, get back to the regimen," Price said. "Get back to the routine, waking up early every morning -- that’s not going to be hard, because I’m so used to it now. Waking up, get a workout, stretch, eat right, just continue the good habits."

He has high hopes.

"Just look at everything," he concluded, when asked what needs to improve. "Everything that goes into it. On the field, off the field, look at everything and see what you can improve on."